Living a Faith-Driven Life
Change is challenging.
While some changes are easier to embrace than others, it can be a deep struggle to accept ripples in the status quo. No matter how well we do or do not accept God-ordained change, we find rest in our unchanging God by looking at His Word.
In Galatians, Paul gives us an account of the biggest ripple in his life; a ripple still causing waves in the world today. Paul gives us his testimony of changing from a life enslaved to the law to a life of freedom found in God. Paul’s new life, as our own, is rooted in “being crucified with Christ.” This is a death that calls us to “become utterly estranged from my former habit of feeling and action” (Thayer’s Lexicon). Changing from living for self to a life of self-denial is often strenuous work. This new life of faith can only be lived out through the strength of the Holy Spirit (Phil 1:6).
What does this life of faith look like? It begins with a conviction that our Creator exists, that He rules all things, and that He is the provider and giver of our eternal life through Christ. Living a life of faith means that no matter what God-ordained ripples come your way, it does not change that He is ever-existing, always ruling justly, and always giving good gifts to His children. As your knowledge of your Creator deepens, your faith increases.
The roots of our faith can run deep because of the love of Jesus. At the end of verse 20, Paul states that the Son of God loves you so much that He is unwilling to abandon you. The Son sees you as a prize worthy of obtaining at any cost. He willingly gave Himself over as the sacrifice for the debt you could not pay so that you would gain the advantage of life in Him. Will you let the truth of God’s love for you strengthen the roots of your faith?
How does applying your faith to everyday life play out practically? Faith in action is turning from our natural sinful feelings and actions and working to make room in our hearts be led to the truth of God’s unchanging promises. It could be as simple as thanking God for providing the groceries needed each month as inflation rises instead of worrying about how the budget will stretch. It could be embracing with gratitude the ordained season of life God has you in, even if it is the season you would not choose for yourself. Or, it could be praising God for a season of rest and receiving from others when He ordains ongoing health crises.
Whatever ripple(s) God has ordained for your life today, will you act on the promises of who He is and what He has done, or will you resort to your former feelings and actions? What promise are you leaning hard on today? Will you share in the comments?
Meet the Author
JoAnna Baird
JoAnna, her husband of 3 years, Daniel, and their one year old daughter reside in Greenville, SC. Her days are filled with the joyful mundane tasks of being a homemaker and mother. She is passionate about pointing others to Jesus through the truths and promises found in His Word.
When time allows, JoAnna dabbles in her hobbies of sewing, baking, thrifting, and gardening. Her ideal day would begin with coffee followed by spending time with family building lifelong memories.
